Employment Support Research Articles

From Handouts to Empowerment: Impacts of Policy Subsidies and Employment Support on the Well-Being of Disabled Veterans

Balancing policy subsidies and employment support is crucial for developing effective assistance policies for disabled veterans. This study conducted an empirical investigation in China using 315 survey questionnaires. The findings indicate that, first, subsidies have a positive impact on the well-being of disabled veterans, but this effect diminishes as disability severity increases. Second, employment emerges as a crucial factor that surpasses subsidies in contributing to overall well-being. As disability severity increases, the relative impact of employment on well-being strengthens. Third, employment enhances well-being by improving self-identity, while the influence of subsidies on self-identity is relatively minimal. Additionally, a policy model demonstrates that subsidies enhance individual well-being but increase group uncertainty, whereas employment support improves individual well-being and reduces group uncertainty. These insights are valuable for governments when formulating policies related to social security, employment stability, and welfare protection.

Experiences of genetic counselors practicing in multiple languages: Progress and places for improvement.

As awareness of the value of genetic counseling services increases, there has been greater recognition of the need to diversify service delivery into different languages. Studies within genetic counseling and related fields have identified complications that can arise from language nonconcordance between provider and patient. A strategy to mitigate language barriers is prioritizing the development of a multilingual workforce of genetic counselors (GCs) who can communicate with patients in their preferred language. This exploratory study assessed the experiences of multilingual GCs who have practiced in a clinical role with the aim to identify relevant challenges and differences when counseling in their nondominant language. Statistical analysis was performed to identify differences in session tasks and emotions experienced when counseling in one's nondominant language versus their dominant language. Data analysis identified an increase in reported difficulty level for most clinical tasks while using a nondominant language, most notably for difficulty with psychosocial counseling, disclosing results, and administrative tasks. Participants were also surveyed on employer support and resources provided. Overall, results suggest that multilingual GCs may benefit from greater support in certain areas within clinical roles to enhance their ability to provide patient care in their nondominant language.

FACTORS OF THE ADAPTATION AND CHANGE SKILLS OF HUNGARIAN MICRO AND SMALL ENTERPRISES

Micro and small enterprises (MSEs) are essential contributors to the global economy, playing a key role in gross domestic product, private sector employment, and the external trade balance. Despite their significance, they have historically been under-researched, particularly in the context of innovation, where much of the focus tends to be on larger corporations. The innovation of MSEs is critical for their long-term competitiveness and sustainability, yet many studies fail to explore the specific factors that drive this innovativeness within these smaller firms. The objective of this research was to address this gap by conducting a comprehensive investigation into the factors that influence the adaptability and change capabilities of MSEs, both of which are crucial for fostering innovation. A bibliometric analysis, spanning nearly fifty years of academic literature, was undertaken to identify the key factors that impact the innovativeness of MSEs. This analysis led to the identification of ten significant factors, among which dynamic capabilities—defined as a firm’s ability to integrate, build, and reconfigure internal and external competencies to address rapidly changing environments—stood out as the most prominent. Dynamic capabilities allow firms to not only respond to change but to anticipate and shape future trends, positioning them as key drivers of innovation within MSEs. In addition to the literature review, an empirical study was conducted using data from 207 Hungarian entrepreneurs. The statistical analysis of this data revealed a verifiable relationship between several of the identified factors and the innovativeness of these enterprises. Specifically, creativity, workplace autonomy, and dynamic capabilities were found to significantly influence both employee support for innovation and openness to innovative ideas. This suggests that fostering a work environment that encourages creativity and provides employees with a high degree of autonomy can enhance innovation within MSEs. In contrast, the factors of proactiveness and competitive aggressiveness did not demonstrate a conclusive relationship with either employee support for innovation or openness to innovation in the areas examined. The research also found that while some factors aligned with initial expectations, others only partially supported the original hypotheses. For instance, while dynamic capabilities, creativity, and autonomy were strongly linked to innovativeness, other factors such as organizational culture and leadership style had a more complex or indirect relationship with innovation outcomes. Overall, the results of this study are largely consistent with the international literature on the subject, particularly in emphasizing the pivotal role of dynamic capabilities in driving innovation within MSEs. These findings provide important insights for both researchers and practitioners, highlighting the importance of creating an organizational environment that nurtures creativity, grants employees autonomy, and strengthens dynamic capabilities. By focusing on these areas, MSEs can better position themselves to innovate and remain competitive in an increasingly dynamic and complex business landscape. This research contributes to the ongoing dialogue on innovation in small enterprises and underscores the importance of tailoring strategies to enhance the specific strengths of MSEs.

Comparative Analysis of Sustainable Seafarers’ Employment and Welfare Systems in South Korea and China: Contemporary Issues and Improvements

Seafarers are recognized as essential workers responsible for maintaining the national logistics supply chain. This study analyzes the sustainable seafarers’ employment and welfare systems in South Korea and China using the comparative case study approach and presents relevant implications. In the era of the “New Normal” after the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, which is marked by hyper-personalization, seafarers have become increasingly resistant to acquiring maritime education and performing onboard duties. Even though South Korea has recognized seafarers as key agents of national economic growth, the participation of the new generation in the shipping industry has recently been declining. Meanwhile, China has been developing its shipping industry since the Deng Xiaoping reforms and fosters skilled seafarers by providing rigorous maritime education. However, both countries have been experiencing difficulties in ensuring the legal and social protection of seafarers; hence, the challenge of providing sustainable employment and welfare to seafarers remains. In conclusion, this study proposes the establishment of the “Asia Maritime Education, Employment, and Welfare Support Center” to support seafarers’ employment and welfare with the cooperation of other countries in the Asian region.

THE AI-GENDER INTERSECTION: PIONEERING SOLUTIONS FOR WORK-LIFE BALANCE BEYOND TRADITIONAL HOURS

The paper explores the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and gender equality, focusing on how AI can address gender disparities in the workplace and enhance work-life balance. It begins by outlining the historical context of the traditional 9-5 work model and its implications for gender inequality, particularly the challenges faced by women in achieving career advancement and work-life balance. The research objectives include investigating the potential of AI technologies to reduce gender disparities, improve work-life balance, and foster unbiased hiring practices. Key findings highlight that AI can play a pivotal role in transforming workplace dynamics by automating repetitive tasks, enabling flexible work arrangements, and providing personalized support for employees. Case studies illustrate successful implementations of AI in recruitment processes, showing how organizations like Unilever and Hilton have utilized AI to promote fairer hiring practices and enhance diversity. However, the paper also addresses the risks of AI reinforcing existing biases if not carefully managed. The significance of this research lies in its implications for policymakers, employers, and workers. By leveraging AI responsibly, organizations can create more equitable workplaces that accommodate diverse needs and promote gender parity. The paper concludes with recommendations for ethical AI use, emphasizing the importance of transparency, accountability, and continuous monitoring to mitigate biases and ensure that AI technologies benefit all employees.

State support for employment of rural population in Kazakhstan

Purpose - the problems of employment in rural areas are considered and the ways of their solution are proposed. Methods - economic and statistical method, monographic, systematic, sociological analysis - to determine the indicators and factors of providing jobs - were used in identifying the trends of employment of rural population. Results - the current situation in the labor market was studied, the state programs for the expansion of this segment and the results of their implementation were analyzed. The statistical data of unemployment rate by categories in dynamics are compared: age, gender composition, share of labor-sufficient urban and rural populations. The experience of foreign countries is shown, the approved norms of the number of employees employed in agriculture are presented. Conclusions - to improve the socio-economic infrastructure of rural areas and to improve the quality of life of rural residents it is important to improve the system of subsidizing economic entities. This, in turn, is achievable under the condition of investment of staff units in agricultural production and strengthening social protection of the population. Structural reorganization of the economy has affected the decrease of labor employment in the agrarian sphere, which is one of the criteria of economic development of the republic. Diversification in the agro-industrial complex, support of peasant (farmer) farms and alternative forms of labor relations in rural areas allow to smooth negative trends and receive additional income. The priority direction of labor mobility of rural residents is the expansion of small business. To this end, it is necessary to ease the tax burden on its enterprises, create regional centers for their support, which should direct the available financial and material resources primarily to the implementation of projects and employment programs in rural areas.

The Influence of Work Placement, Work Stress and Teamwork on the Performance of Aviation Security Personnel of PT Angkasa Pura I Yogyakarta International Airport (YIA) Branch

This research aims to determine the effect of work placement, work stress and teamwork on the performance of Aviation Security personnel at PT Angkasa Pura I Yogyakarta International Airport (YIA) Branch. The population in this study were all employees of PT Angkasa Pura I Yogyakarta International Airport (YIA) Branch who worked at the terminal with a total of 240 people. In calculating the Slovin formula, a sample of 36 people was obtained. The data analysis used is descriptive statistics, multiple linear regression, coefficient of determination (R²) and partial hypothesis testing (t test). The results of this research show that good work placement and teamwork have a positive and significant influence on employee performance, while work stress has no effect on employee performance. In conclusion, to improve the performance of security personnel, management needs to pay attention to appropriate work placement, reduce work stress through employee support programs and strengthen teamwork.

A Study on Customized Education AI Services for Employment Support of Individuals with Borderline Intellectual Functioning

A Study on Customized Education AI Services for Employment Support of Individuals with Borderline Intellectual Functioning

두뇌 유입(Brain Gain) 관점에서 외국인 유학생의 국내 고용 활성화를 위한 IPA 분석 : 정부출연연구기관 이공계 석·박사과정을 중심으로

With Korea's total fertility rate recorded at 0.72 in 2023, there is even a pessimistic prospect that it will become the 'first country to extinguish the population'. In the face of serious demographic challenges such as a population decline, regions disappear, and a lack of high-quality human resources in the industry due to a rapid decline in the fertility rate, the Korean government and each local government are pouring out various policies to alleviate these problems by utilizing the capabilities of international students. This study analyzed the importance of domestic employment promotion activities and differences in the degree of implementation of the employment support system for international students studying as master's and doctoral students at government-funded research institutes using the importance-performance analysis(IPA) methodology. As a result of the analysis, 'recommendation of supervisors' and 'industrial cooperation projects' were evaluated as the most important employment promotion activities, and in the employment support system, 'flexible visa system' and 'simplification of immigration procedures' for researchers were recognized as important. In addition, it was found that there is a difference in perception between the importance and performance of international students depending on the region of residence and country of origin, so a strategy for promoting employment tailored to the region of residence and country of origin is necessary. This study is limited to international students in science and engineering who are enrolled in U graduate university, so there is a limit to the generalization of research results. In future research, extended research is needed including international students from science and technology specialized universities and base national universities. In addition, it is proposed to expand the study on how the expectations and demands of the employment support system of international students differ according to the cultural context by comprehensively considering the country and cultural background and economic conditions that affect the employment activation of international students.

Influence of Online Work Viral Anxiety Mediates the Relationship between Intolerance of Uncertainty and Personal Injunctive Norms on Adherence to Physical Distancing among Bank Support Provider

This study investigates the role of viral anxiety as a mediator between personal injunctive norms, intolerance of uncertainty, and adherence to physical distancing among bank support staff in Pakistan. The research addresses a critical gap in understanding how psychological factors, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, influence employee behaviour in high-stress environments, particularly in the rapidly digitizing banking sector. Using a quantitative approach, data were collected from 150 bank support employees through a structured questionnaire. The findings reveal that viral anxiety significantly mediates the relationship between personal injunctive norms and physical distancing, indicating that anxiety about virus exposure is a key driver of compliance with safety protocols. However, the direct effects of personal injunctive norms and intolerance of uncertainty on physical distancing were not significant when viral anxiety was accounted for, suggesting that anxiety overshadows other psychological factors in influencing behaviour. These results highlight the need for organizations to address viral anxiety through targeted interventions to ensure employee well-being and adherence to health guidelines in the workplace. The study contributes to the theoretical understanding of health-related behaviours in organizational settings and offers practical implications for managing employee anxiety in the context of public health crises.

Modern problems of pedagogical support for young employees of investigative departments of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia

The article discusses topical issues related to the pedagogical support of young employees of investigative departments of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia, analyzes in detail the challenges faced by novice investigators and the need for pedagogical support for the successful integration of young investigators. The study is based on the analysis of normative legal acts, scientific literature, as well as the results of an empirical study among employees of investigative departments of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia.

Research on the Influence of Employment Support Workshop on Poverty Alleviation Labor in Rural China

The poverty alleviation workshop has played a huge role in solving the problem of local employment of Chinese elderly people, left-behind women and poverty-stricken people in poverty-stricken areas. In the process of China's rural revitalization, the poverty alleviation workshop was renamed the employment assistance workshop. In the form of case studies, this paper summarizes the main operation modes of the four types of employment assistance workshops, empirically analyzes the income increasing effect of employment assistance workshops through econometric models, and suggestions on how to better promote rural revitalization of employment assistance workshops.

Student parents and carers need graduate employability support: Recommendations for employability practitioners

Universities and their employability-related staff must address the inequities that claim diversity as a disadvantage and a barrier to securing work integrated learning and graduate employment. With increases in equity groups enrolling at university there is a need to ensure access to employability opportunities. Graduate employability should be an accolade for students however it is not accessible, and ubiquitous for all. Student parents and carers are an invisible cohort that needs to be identified, and supported with their employability as they are a significantly growing population in higher education. This provocation will present the current landscape at university and offer three recommendations: the integration of career development learning and work experiences; data-informed systems and procedures; and collaboration and research into ‘employability for inclusion.’ This is required to build staff capability and organisational capacity and prepare our future workforce that is representative of today’s society.

Depressive symptoms, loneliness and social support in healthcare employees: does the source of support matter?

Purpose Depressive symptoms are a risk factor for loneliness, while sources of perceived social support from family and friends are protective factors; however, the complex mechanisms behind these factors have not been examined among health-care employees in Portugal. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the indirect effect of perceived social support from family and friends on the association between depressive symptoms and loneliness. Design/methodology/approach Health-care employees (n = 279; 242 female and 37 male) from 12 health-care institutions in Portugal participated in this cross-sectional study. The SPSS program with PROCESS macro (Model 6) was used to test the hypothesis regarding the indirect effect analysis. Findings Bootstrap analysis found that family as a source of social support had an indirect effect in the relationship between depressive symptoms and loneliness. Similarly, depressive symptoms had a significant indirect effect on loneliness through the indirect role of social support from friends. Moreover, it was found that the relationship of family and friends as sources of social support mediated the association of the aforementioned variables. Originality/value The findings of this study underscore the important role of depressive symptoms on perceived social support from family and friends, leading to loneliness, which is a public health concern among health-care employees in Portugal.

Which Skills Do Students with Intellectual Disabilities Need for Pursuing Leisure Activities After Graduation? A Survey among Vocational Rehabilitation Practitioners in Japan

Background: Leisure activities contribute to the quality of life and continuation of employment for individuals with disabilities. However, education related to leisure activities is inadequate in special needs schools in Japan. Purpose: This study aimed to clarify which components of leisure guidance are considered important by vocational rehabilitation practitioners in Japan. Methods: An online survey was conducted in 337 branches of the Support Center for Employment and Livelihood of Persons with Disabilities in Japan. Results: Employment support practitioners recognized the importance of teaching students how to use their leisure time outside of working hours and helping them cultivate skills necessary to engage in leisure activities, regardless of whether they were still in school or had already graduated. In school, importance was placed on providing activities aimed at expanding leisure opportunities after graduation. For the period after graduation, the emphasis shifted to acquiring specific abilities necessary for engaging in leisure activities with other people, such as money management and securing means of transportation. Conclusion: This study provides a direction for optimizing the quality of leisure guidance for individuals with special needs. The findings can help improve teaching practices in special needs schools and enhance the effectiveness of transition support for students with disabilities.

A Qualitative Descriptive Study of Engagement in and Influencing Factors of Population-Based OT Practice for Older Adults

Introduction Occupational therapy has recently begun promoting population-based practice (PBP), which would allow them to address the myriad of factors impacting older adults’ health. The purpose of this qualitative study was to describe occupational therapists’ engagement in PBP and factors they perceive influence engagement. Methods Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 21 occupational therapists. Results Qualitative content analysis revealed PBP was facilitated by personal interests and volunteerism or by employer-provided opportunities. Therapists’ knowledge and skills, understanding of OT, employer support, resources, and features of the US healthcare system all influence engagement. Discussion There is limited understanding of PBP among occupational therapists. These professionals have the foundational knowledge and skills to participate, but additional education and employer support is needed to increase engagement. Barriers must be overcome, and facilitators of engagement promoted, to enable the incorporation of PBP in everyday OT practice, and subsequently, improve health outcomes for the older adult population.

Employment Experiences and Employability of People in China Living With Schizophrenia: A Qualitative Study.

Employment support for people living with schizophrenia in China currently focuses only on patient-level factors. The authors' aim was to assess the employment experiences of this population and to identify factors related to their employability. In-depth interviews were conducted with 24 purposively selected respondents. A thematic analysis was performed. A framework for examining the employment experiences and factors affecting employability of people living with schizophrenia was developed. Employability varied by individual characteristics, personal circumstances, and external factors. Individual-level characteristics, such as health and well-being, work skills and experience, educational attainment, personal social network, gender, and age, influenced individuals' work motivation and performance. Personal circumstances, such as family socioeconomic status and caregiving responsibilities, affected whether individuals decided to seek employment. External factors, such as labor market conditions, macroeconomic context, stigma and discrimination, mental health services, and policy factors, determined how likely individuals were to be employed and the types of jobs they were likely to obtain. A multifaceted combination of factors was found to influence employability among people living with schizophrenia. This research provided a thematic framework to structure effective employment support for people in China living with schizophrenia.

A comparative analysis of educational, employment, social status, and healthcare access outcomes between deaf and non-deaf migrants

ABSTRACT Migrants face various challenges in new environments, which are further compounded for those with sensory disabilities. Deaf migrants often encounter unique obstacles that affect their integration and quality of life. This study aims to explore disparities in education, employment, social integration, and healthcare access between deaf and non-deaf migrants. This research employed quantitative methods including logistic regression and Mann–Whitney U tests to analyse data collected from both deaf and non-deaf migrant groups. The study adjusted for demographic variables to isolate the effects of hearing status on various outcomes. Findings indicate that deaf migrants are less likely to achieve higher educational levels and are employed at lower rates compared to non-deaf migrants. Additionally, deaf migrants reported significantly lower subjective social status and faced greater barriers in accessing healthcare services, attributed to communication difficulties and insufficient support systems. The results underscore significant disparities faced by deaf migrants in critical areas of life. These challenges are primarily due to systemic barriers and a lack of adequate resources and accommodations that address their specific needs. The study highlights the need for targeted policies and programs to enhance educational opportunities, employment support, social integration, and healthcare accessibility for deaf migrants, ensuring their successful integration and participation in society.

Examining employee engagement and its importance at the selected South African university

An engaged workforce is vital for higher education institutions to contribute positively to the developing world. The purpose of this study is to examine employee engagement and its significance for academic and administrative employees at the Durban University of Technology in the Province of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa. The study opted for a quantitative research design to explore the role and importance of employee engagement. The target population consisted of 1,861 university employees at the selected university in South Africa, and 320 employee from different university units and positions were selected using simple random sampling without replacement. The results revealed that 80% of respondents exert high levels of physical energy, concentration, and dedication toward achieving institutional objectives. Additionally, the results showed a significant difference in the support employees get, with administrative staff receiving more support than academic staff members. The study concluded that university employees exhibit high levels of physical energy at work. In addition, the study found a significant and positive relationship between employees exhibiting high levels of physical energy at work and employees who find their work meaningful and experience inspiration.

Employment brand equity and corporate’s job growth and reputation

PurposeThis research aimed to explore the commonalities and differences in the type of information provided on corporate websites in relation to their employment brand equity.Design/methodology/approachMixed methods of content analysis, ANOVA and regression analyses were employed to answer the research questions. The data were collected from multiple sources, including the websites of a sample of forty companies listed as the US Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work in 2012 and information presented on Fortune’s website as well.FindingsEmployment brand equity hardly showed any significant impact on either company’s job growth or reputation in the ranking as an “employer of choice”.Practical implicationsThe results indicated some practices to make a company’s employment brand outstanding and how its web presence reflected its “brand” and presence for potential employees. They are useful for HR practitioners concerned with building an employee brand. For example, the more highly ranked companies in the Fortune 100 tend to provide more forms of online support related to employment opportunities.Originality/valueUsing brand equity theory from the marketing arena and applying this within the human resources management area, this study suggests that “employment brand equity” became a major factor that many companies and organizations should focus on to enhance their standing with job seekers, particularly talented ones. Nearly a decade before the COVID-19 pandemic, the best companies to work for in the US had paid attention to digitalization via websites and social media, to attract talent (and support employees).